All Bar One X Amanda Dilworth

The Art of Celebration

When Derbyshire-based illustrator and designer Amanda Dilworth’s playful, nature inspired prints caught our eye, we knew straight away she was the ideal collaborator for our Autumn/Winter menus, destined to inject a little extra beauty into your drinking and dining experience. Here, Amanda tells us about the art of eating drinking, and why good food and wine should always come with a side helping of good design…

How do you celebrate?

“My idea of the perfect celebration is a memorable meal with delicious wine - and great company to share it with. To me, going out for a meal is about a collective experience, and your surroundings matter just as much as quality ingredients and a well-crafted menu. Creating the right atmosphere is an art form all of its own, and I think that strong design and beautiful artwork should enrich the whole experience of eating out with friends.”

How do you try to create an atmosphere with your artwork?

“Hopefully my designs for the All Bar One menus convey a warming autumnal comfort, with a sophisticated yet fun feel. I absolutely loved working on this commission; I’m passionate about both food and wine, and menu artwork is such an original idea. From the moment you sit down the menu is a focal point on the table or bar. One of my favourite things about dining out is taking time to savour and enjoy the menu before I order!”

As well as All Bar One’s autumn/winter menus, what other items feature your designs?

“As well as magazine and website illustrations, my designs have decorated greeting cards, gift wrap and stationery, wallpaper, bedding and cushions, iPhone cases and iPad covers, and tableware like mugs, bowls and jugs. My patterns have also been printedon leggings, t-shirts, tote-bags and even shoes. I’m waiting for something even crazier - toilet seats would be fun…”

What do you love most about your job?

“It’s so nice to know that my designs are making their way around the world and hopefully making someone somewhere happy. The nicest comment I everreceived from a customer was: “Your artwork brightens my day.” A world without art would be a seriously dull place.”